The Flying Pintohttp://www.theflyingpinto.com
A Flight Attendant BlogMon, 20 Jul 2015 15:21:28 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.9.1theflyingpinto/gpyNhttps://feedburner.google.comBest Places to Eat in Londonhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/OSsfeQWPSJk/best-places-to-eat-in-london.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2015/07/best-places-to-eat-in-london.html#commentsMon, 20 Jul 2015 15:21:28 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2796London is a city that has long be known for its historical sites—Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Tower of London—but more recently it has also been making a name for itself amongst the foodies of the world. Whether you’re looking for delicious gastropub dishes or modern takes on old English classics, the British food scene has been reinvigorated by the use of fresh produce and modern techniques. Here are five of the best places to dine in London.

1. MEATliquor

This spot located just off of Oxford Street near Bond Street Tube Station has gathered a cult following amongst Londoners and is commonly referred to as being the home of the best burger in town. Don’t let the nondescript exterior fool you, inside you’ll find an interior that harkens back to the punk days of London, but serves up great cocktails and classic American dishes like wings, shakes, and chili cheese fries.

2. The Golden Hind

A trip to Marylebone Lane would not be complete without a visit to one of London’s most cherished fish and chip shops, The Golden Hind. While finding a good Chippie in this town is as easy walking down the street, finding a great one can be a little more difficult. The Golden Hind has long been the favorite of politicians, actors, and any local in the know.

3. Sagar Covent Garden

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, Sagar is a Southern Indian restaurant that specializes in the delicious dosas, idlis, and chutneys that give this cuisine its unique taste. Reasonably priced and always popular, this can make a great lunch option or a pre-theatre meal.

4. The Breakfast Club

Grown from its hipster roots to be one of the most popular brunch chains in the city, The Breakfast Club has seven locations throughout town and a menu that will satisfy all. From traditional breakfast grub like pancakes and bacon, eggs Benedict and Florentine, Boston beans, chorizo hash browns, and breakfast burritos, to lunch time services featuring pulled pork sandwiches, buttermilk fried chicken, and tacos, you’ll find the cure for what ails you.

5. Hyde Park Picnic

For those looking to take advantage of the summer weather, nothing beats picking up a meal to go and rummaging through Tesco wine offers to find all the perfect parts of a classic English picnic. Don’t forget to pack a blanket and some extra plates and utensils for when all your friends show up to take in the beauty of the sunshine and city.

There are plenty of great comprehensive guides to help you pick out dining spots in London, but these are a few where you’re sure to enjoy your meal.

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2015/07/best-places-to-eat-in-london.html/feed0http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2015/07/best-places-to-eat-in-london.htmlGran Canaria: Sunny Coasts, Captivating Attractions, and Off-beat Activitieshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/3UGubSpa44c/gran-canaria-sunny-coasts-captivating-attractions-and-off-beat-activities.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2015/04/gran-canaria-sunny-coasts-captivating-attractions-and-off-beat-activities.html#commentsWed, 15 Apr 2015 00:06:27 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2784Planning a vacation but not sure where to go? Then you should seriously consider putting Gran Canaria in your travel plans and signing up for Gran Canaria flights that are easy to book. The latest and most prevalent vacation destination in all of Europe, this island attracts hundred of visitors on a yearly basis, thanks to its sunny coasts, captivating attractions, and off-beat activities. Speaking of off-beat activities, below are some of the ones that you’ll definitely enjoy while in the world-class island.

Cave tours

Gran Canaria is not just famous for its clear waters and white sands; there, you’ll also find cliffs that are surrounded by caves. These natural wonders were homes of the island’s inhabitants during ancient times and touring them is a worthwhile experience that you won’t regret.

Bike tours

Done with your bike tour and you feel that you’re still up for some exhilarating outdoor adventure? Then you should go for a Gran Canaria bike tour. With routes that range from easy to “you gotta be kidding me,” you should coordinate with a reputable tour provider if you want to experience a bike tour that will perfectly complement your preference and fitness level.

Take a coffee break

Are you a coffee lover who tries different kinds of roasts when travelling abroad? Then you should take a coffee break at the municipality of Agaete is Los Berrazales, where you can find some the most alluring coffee roasts in Gran Canaria. While there, you can see for yourself how aromatic blends of coffee are produced.

Aloe vera galore

Aside from great coffee, Gran Canaria also produces some the world’s finest aloe vera, which are utilized extensively in spa, skin, and beauty treatments. Found in its purest form and without additives or artificial preservatives, this natural moisturizer is the perfect complement for your sun-kissed skin.

Summary

So, if you’re still dazed where to go during for your vacation getaway, it would be best to include Gran Canaria in your travel plans. While there, you’ll definitely experience a worthwhile escapade that is just one for the books when it comes to sunny coasts, beautiful attractions, and offbeat activities.

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2015/04/gran-canaria-sunny-coasts-captivating-attractions-and-off-beat-activities.html/feed0http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2015/04/gran-canaria-sunny-coasts-captivating-attractions-and-off-beat-activities.htmlTravel Pro Packing Tipshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/ZqP4WtewP44/travel-pro-packing-tips.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/11/travel-pro-packing-tips.html#commentsSun, 23 Nov 2014 11:00:29 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=1903What type of baggage do you have? Ok, that may be a personal question, but what bag you choose to travel with can affect your trip in a positive or negative way. Not all bags are created equal, your individual needs will determine what type of bag you need to have a successful travel day. Start with the right brand. Travel Pro, the first rollaboard suitcase, was invented by a pilot and is the trusted brand of both flight attendants, pilots and frequent fliers.

The Business Traveler: A wheeled garment bag is best for most business travelers. The clothes packed need to arrive as pressed as possible. Packing in a garment bag allows you arrive to that business meeting that starts an hour after you land looking like you didn’t just get off an airplane. It also has ample room for everything else you need to pack.

The Family: When the entire family travels together and there are two adults involved, I recommend two roller boards. A larger one (22″ or larger) for checking and a smaller (18-22″) for carrying on. Mix and match clothing, meaning make sure everyone has at least a couple of outfits in the carry on suitcase just in case the airline “ahem” misplaces your checked bag. Checking one bag allows you to bring whatever size liquids you need while helping stream line your trip through security…one less thing to pull out in the TSA line. Also, it frees one parents hands to help with the kids while the carry on suitcase can “carry” your cooler and smaller carry on.

The Solo Traveler: A perfect bag for you is the 18″-22″ roller board. If you’re headed on vacation and not packing business attire you are free to roll your clothes which saves space and keeps your clothes mostly wrinkle free. Choose outfits that mix and match and softer fabrics that can be rolled tight. You’ll be surprised how much fits.

The Over-nighter: (the deluxe rolling tote with computer sleeve) I know some extremely talented packers (flight attendants) and if you are going somewhere for just a day or two this bag can suit all your needs. Fits both your clothes and computer and less is always more when flying.

Visit Travelproluggageoutlet.com for these and many more bags to fit your travel needs. We’ve teamed up to offer my audience an AMAZING 25% off their entire site! Use code: CREWSUMMER25 at check out. Also visit us on Facebook and twitter to join the conversation.

As flight attendants we visit many airports every single week, and knowing what things to seek out when you arrive at an airport is extremely useful. Whether it’s restaurants to dine in, the shops that operate there, its parking services if it’s your home airport or the sort of flights that the airport offers. This sort of useful information isn’t just important for flight attendants; it’s extremely useful for travelers of all forms.

And like its counterpart Heathrow, London’s Gatwick isn’t just your average airport. Over the years it has won many awards for its constant innovation and service to flyers. Its rivalry with the UK’s flagship airport Heathrow also means that it is continually aiming to upgrade its facilities and strive to become as efficient as the busiest airport in the world. The recent injection of around £1.2 billion (USD$1.87 billion) funding, aims to rejuvenate the airport further.

With all that in mind, here are some helpful tips and useful information about Gatwick Airport.Jamie Oliver’s new restaurant

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver launched two restaurants at Gatwick in 2012; Union Jack’s and an Italian eatery. The Daily Mail reports that, Union Jack’s aims to offer its customers “a bespoke menu of British small plates.”

Take advantage of long stopovers

If you are unlucky and have a long stopover at Gatwick, take advantage of the tube links directly from Gatwick airport to central London. If your stopover time is around the 10-hour mark, then this may give you time to check out some of the London sights.

Gatwick’s parking services

The airport’s parking services have won National Awards for its efficiency and are ideal for all sorts of travelers. Per Parking4Less, Gatwick offers short stay, long stay parking options and valet services for people who want to securely park their cars while flying to a different destination. The short stay option is ideal for businessmen and women who have impromptu meetings overseas and want affordable, secure and convenient parking. It’s also ideal for people who have hired cars during their trips, as they can return them at the parking area, where the hire company can pick them up.

YOTEL

YOTEL is a Japanese-themed hotel, which offers visitors short stay options as well as premium comfort at affordable rates. However, like its Asian counterparts it offers Asian ingenuity with compact cabins to stay in as opposed to hotel rooms.

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/08/gatwick-not-just-an-airport.html/feed0http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/08/gatwick-not-just-an-airport.htmlFlight Attendant Travel Issues: Purchasing The Right Gifthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/XwE1wqQwh2M/flight-attendant-travel-issues-purchasing-the-right-gift.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/08/flight-attendant-travel-issues-purchasing-the-right-gift.html#commentsMon, 25 Aug 2014 18:28:09 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2739A professional flight attendant can be a challenging lifestyle. In a very real way, you may never know which city or country you will be in from one day to the next. While this can present a great many challenges, we should never forget that purchasing a heartfelt gift for a friend or loved one can sometimes be nearly impossible. Perhaps you do not have the time to visit a shopping centre or your location entirely prevents you from choosing the correct gift. So, what options are you left with?

The Power of the Coupon

There are numerous advantages encountered when choosing these handy alternatives. Gift coupons are great for special occasions because they are easy to avail and can fit almost any budget. So, you will never worry about spending too much if your finances are limited. Also, there is no worry about a gift becoming damaged or broken during transit; it is the card itself that is the present. Let us never forget that such cards can be used in a variety of locations such as Target and through online retailers including Amazon and eBay. These are some of the main aspects which have allowed gift cards to be highly valued.

Something for Everyone

Flight attendants can spend a great deal of time away from their home and family. So, it can sometimes be difficult to know which type of gift is the best option. This is especially true for those who are naturally difficult to shop for. A gift coupon all but eliminates this concern; he or she can spend the money in the manner that they best see fit. Still, it is always a good idea to take a look at the numerous online auction and retail sites available. Many of these will offer gift cards and these cards can likewise be enjoyed at valuable discounts.

These cards and certificates will take the mystery out of purchasing a special gift for a friend or loved one. As time is indeed a commodity with any flight attendant, you can rest assured in the fact that you are making the best possible choices.

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/08/flight-attendant-travel-issues-purchasing-the-right-gift.html/feed0http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/08/flight-attendant-travel-issues-purchasing-the-right-gift.htmlPack a Weekend Bag for the Big Applehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/2eZ1JBjL3tQ/pack-a-weekend-bag-for-the-big-apple.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/07/pack-a-weekend-bag-for-the-big-apple.html#commentsWed, 02 Jul 2014 16:51:05 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2734New York City truly is one of a kind. From the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, bagels and beyond, the Big Apple is a larger than life destination that everyone should visit at least once in a lifetime. Visitors return time and time again, exploring something new with each visit. Full of sights, sounds and skylines, you can book flights to New York for the ideal city break (and, oh, a bit of shopping, of course!). Here are some of the very best things to do on a mini jaunt to the city that never sleeps…

Stroll in Central Park

Boasting fields, forests, water and fine dining within its city-center boundaries, as parks go it doesn’t get much more iconic than Central Park. A stroll through the park can lead visitors anywhere from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Plaza Hotel. Whether you’re slap bang in the middle of it or just viewing it from a scenic rooftop patio, Central Park is the ultimate slice of New York in one lovely leafy package.

Say Hello to Lady Liberty
Whether you splurge on tickets or take in the view from the ferry, the Statue of Liberty is a monument to behold. New York City’s diverse and vibrant multicultural communities originated with thousands of immigrants coming to New York. Most of them passed by Lady Liberty herself before stepping foot on American soil. The ferry terminal may be something of a tourist trap, but there’s no denying that the statue is one of New York’s most significant and moving monuments.

No visit to New York would be complete (you can’t even call it a visit!) without a trip to midtown Manhattan where the bright lights of Broadway have enchanted visitors for decades. The energy, the music, the people and the sheer scale of this part of New York is overwhelming and inspiring. For last minute tickets to some of the city’s hottest shows visit one of the TKTS booths dotted throughout the city. Whether it’s a matinee of Wicked or an evening performance of The Book of Mormon, you can’t leave New York without a trip to Broadway.

Sure there are plenty more incredible sights to mention, but what really makes New York so special is the variety that visitors inevitably experience in the city. An hour-long stroll downtown can take you on a journey through Little Italy, Chinatown and the East Village where the likes of Bob Dylan played dive bars for peanuts back in the day. Everything from the food to the people to the incredible art and culture make New York City a place worth discovering, time and again.

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/07/pack-a-weekend-bag-for-the-big-apple.html/feed0http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/07/pack-a-weekend-bag-for-the-big-apple.html7 Tips for Young Women from a Flight Attendanthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/LcWOy2wUWh8/2708.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/05/2708.html#commentsSat, 17 May 2014 18:07:44 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=27081. WANDER. Are you feeling lost? You should be… you’re young. I had always envied those who knew their passions early on; looking back I was lucky to be able to explore and find out who I am and what I love at the same time. Skip the worry and…

2. SKIP SCHOOL. Yes, I said it. If number one applies to you, should you really spend a small fortune on expensive colleges or universities? We live in a different world now; the internet is changing our need for brick and mortar institutions. So, unless you know that your career of choice requires that piece of paper, skip it. At least for now.

3. TRAVEL. Wondering what you should do instead of school? Travel! It’s not impossible. Figure out the most realistic way you can make it happen. You can become a flight attendant, you could live at home and save first or you can work your way around the globe. There are many of us who have come before you and loads of resources to help you make it happen. The wonderful world wide web can help make it all possible.

Flying with everything you need is a balancing act, especially if you are flying with small children and babies. It’s a fine line between having all the necessities and being over loaded. The airlines are making harder and harder to travel with everything you need as they get tougher with the carry on regulations. Seems they are enforcing the rules a bit more these days. One thing to remember is that with each seat you pay for you are allowed one personal item such as a purse or diaper bag and one carry on, which would be your roll-a-board. This is the case for most U.S. based carriers. So, what do you do if you are traveling with little ones under two as lap children and you’d like to bring a cooler filled with snacks, but the bag allowance just doesn’t allow for it? I’ll tell you what you do, super travel pros, you fit the snacks in your carry on! I personally tested a few bento style lunch boxes in search for the perfect one that not only fits in your bag, but is leak proof too. I purposely chose the lunch boxes that contained everything as one larger piece instead of a bunch of smaller containers. I think this is a much better way to pack and also makes it easier for snacking on the tray table or in the gate area, if need be. Here is what I found:

Yumbox: For me this is the clear winner! Of course invented by moms! It is the perfect toddler size box to have a nice variety of nutritious snacks for your little ones. What I love most about this little gem is that it is truly leak proof. The proof? We packed yogurt! (actual liquids are not recommended, but sauces & yogurts work) My daughter who just turned seven, gasp, loves this little box too, she enjoys packing it herself. She was able to comfortably fit it into her own small backpack (see photo above) and carry it herself too….something that seems to be extremely important these days:) The yumbox is a permanent travel companion for us!

Planet Box: It’s a close second for me and if you have older, hungrier kids this may be a better choice for you, but it’s size gets in the way and takes up valuable real estate in your carry on. It does fit though, so if you are a packing pro, you can manage it. This is my favorite school lunch box so far but, I hear my friends at Yumbox are coming out with a larger box themselves so I’m excited to see what they turn out! The other con for me is that it is not leak proof like Yumbox. Each separate compartment will spill into the next leaving yogurt, canned bean, dressings or sauces as a no go item.

Zojirushi Mr. Bento Stainless Steel Lunch Jar: If your travel day is a long one, say more than six hours of flying time, this is the one to make room for. I don’t recommend it for shorter trips because it is cumbersome, but if you are settling in for a long haul flight you’ll be happy that you have some of your own healthy food to get you through. With careful planning this will fit in a carry on, it is leak proof and you can even bring soup in this one. It’s like having a picnic in flight!

Go Green: This box needs some tweaking, in my opinion. It’s large size rules it out of air travel for me, but it could be an amazing schoollunch box. My daughter is always starving it seems so I love the size for school. It is leak proof like the Yumbox, but so much trickier to open. You have to unsnap all four sides of it and then the cover is held on by strings that keep it attached to the box. It is difficult for my daughter to open on her own. I do love some things about the design, there is a cute white board on the inside cover so you can write your child notes and even a place for the water bottle on the inside. If they’d make one a bit smaller it could work for air travel.

So there you have it! How do you travel with snacks? Do you have a method that works great for you? We’d love to hear about it! Join us on Facebook, pinterest and twitter! Let’s keep the conversation going!

Happy Flying

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/04/how-to-carry-it-all-packing-kids-snacks-for-air-travel.html/feed0http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/04/how-to-carry-it-all-packing-kids-snacks-for-air-travel.htmlNile Cruise: The Perfect Way To See The Beauty Of Egypthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/gdcz6jqqmxU/nile-cruise-the-perfect-way-to-see-the-beauty-of-egypt.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/03/nile-cruise-the-perfect-way-to-see-the-beauty-of-egypt.html#commentsThu, 20 Mar 2014 16:24:15 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2659One of the cradles of civilization, Egypt is a country with a long, rich history that can be seen by visitors in its landscape, architecture and culture. The Nile River runs through the heart of the country and was central to the development of the ancient societies, as well as being the focus of today’s society. Travellers to Egypt can take a cruise down the river to discover the country’s fascinating past. Nile cruises are perfect if you want to explore the historical and cultural beauty of Egypt and enjoy your vacation to the fullest. These are some of the things you can see on a Nile cruise.

Pyramids

No visit to Egypt is complete without visiting the Pyramids at Giza, Memphis and Saqquara. These monumental structures were built as tombs and celebrations of specific Pharaohs. Among the most famous is the Great Pyramid of Giza, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is where the majority of the royal tombs of the ancient Egyptian rulers are located. Between the 11th and 16th centuries BC, nobles and monarchs were buried in lavish burial chambers. You can visit 63 of them in the Valley, which borders the river. To fully enter into the spirit of such historical relics, you may choose to cruise the Nile in a dahabiyya, the tradition wooden sailing boat of Egypt.

Temple of Edfu

The city of Edfu on the West bank of the Nile houses one of the country’s best-preserved temples. The Temple of Edfu was built to honor Horus, the chief god of the ancient Egyptians. Hieroglyphics adorn the walls of the interior chambers, while the imposing structure towers over the local landscape.Aswan

Located in the south of the country, the city of Aswan is typically the end or start point for a cruise along the Nile. It was from this region that the stone for the Pyramids was quarried, and visitors can still see remnants of that excavation today. In Aswan, the ancient meets the modern as the elemental river is controlled by the Aswan Dam, one of the largest feats of engineering in the world, while the traditional souks and bazaars sit alongside contemporary hotels and restaurants.

However you choose to travel, and whichever part of the Nile you see, a cruise down this awe-inspiring river is a journey of a lifetime.

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/03/nile-cruise-the-perfect-way-to-see-the-beauty-of-egypt.html/feed0http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/03/nile-cruise-the-perfect-way-to-see-the-beauty-of-egypt.htmlThe 10 Wackiest Museums in the UShttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/XkTlog0gR1s/the-10-wackiest-museums-in-the-us.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/02/the-10-wackiest-museums-in-the-us.html#commentsFri, 28 Feb 2014 17:16:23 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2637Are you tired of the same ordinary tourist attractions? The same old art and the same scientific discoveries? Well look no further than the States. Across the USA are some of the most bizarre, wacky and wonderful museums you’ll ever see, from spies to spam, here Natalie from Area Vibes presents a list of some that may surprise you.

Leila’s Hair Museum, Independence, Missouri

Yes, you read that right, a hair museum. This is the only hair museum in the world. Run by Leila, it shows off hundreds of jewellery pieces, all made out of human hair. This may sound a little strange, but really they are all quite intricate and beautiful. The museum has pieces worn by men and women from the Victorian period, some even containing Queen Victoria’s hair. This trend seems to be popular and stars like Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe, who have also had jewellery made from their own hair.

The Trash Museum, Hartford, Connecticut

As mad as this sounds, the Trash Museum is actually a very insightful and interesting place. Trash is something we don’t like to think about, but it has to go somewhere, and by educating people about the problem they are helping to find solutions to the question of where on earth to put it all!

Bigfoot Discovery Museum, Felton, California

This museum is the creation of Mike Rugg, a man passionate about educating the public about Bigfoot. Whether you believe in the hairy man/beast or not, there are still some intriguing things to be seen such as footprints, images and documentaries.

The International Spy Museum, Washington, DC

Do you love the thrill of a great spy film? Do you take your Martini shaken not stirred? Then this museum is somewhere you must visit. Your mind will be filled with all things secretive, giving you an insight into a whole world that is hiding in the shadows. With interactive sections for kids, or big kids, discover if you’ve got what it takes to be a secret agent.

The UFO Museum, Roswell, New Mexico

In 1947, Roswell, New Mexico, there was a crash that sparked questions about aliens that are still being asked to this day. Whether you believe in aliens or not, the museum covers both sides of the argument and might even make you question your own beliefs. It’s a great day out, full of great lifelike models and all things out of this world.

The Museum of Bad Art, Brookline, Massachusetts

Not your usual art gallery, this museum celebrates all the bad art out there, the atrocious portraits and the simply terrible still-lifes. The gallery professes that the sort of art they show is not what you would normally find in a gallery, yet it does have something that draws people to it and according to visitors it “grabs you by the throat and won’t let go.”

The National Museum of Funeral History, Houston, Texas

A ritual both spiritual and practical, the handling of the dead is something Humans have been performing for thousands of years. As with any other process in humanity, the funeral service has evolved over the years, and the museum does a great job of showing this evolution from the average Joe’s service, to the president of the USA and even the Pope.

The Spam Museum, Austin, Minnesota

If you can’t get enough of that meaty, tasty spread, the Spam Museum is a must. With 16,500 square feet of Spam history, you’ll definitely find out some strange and surreal facts about Spam. If that wasn’t enough, buy all the spam related goodies you could possibly want from the gift shop, including tinned spam.

Devil’s Rope Museum, McLean, Texas

Devil’s Rope, otherwise known as barbed wire, is shown in a whole new way at this wacky museum. As a tribute to barbed wire, they claim to provide everything you want to know about barbed wire. While you’re learning, there are also some quite spectacular sculptures dotted around, all made out of, you guessed it, barbed wire. It makes you wonder, how many were injured in the making of this museum.

Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia, Burlington, California

Leaving the best till last, that wonderfully classic sweet dispenser Pez. This is not to be missed. A chance to be transported back to your childhood, this museum has every Pez dispenser ever sold. You don’t just have to look at the exhibits either; the gift shop sells vintage and modern Pez dispensers and stacks of other Pez memorabilia.

If museums aren’t normally your thing, and they only remind you of being reluctantly dragged around as a child, now you can discover the other side. There are some truly bizarre museums out there and the USA is sure to have something to satisfy your hobby, no matter how quirky.

Nat Slater is a travel writer committed to finding the best places to visit across the USA. With over a decade of experience writing for numerous travel sites, she has gathered a wealth of experience of what makes an enjoyable visit. Nat has written articles for blogs and publications across the USA and Canada and continues to travel the world in search of the perfect destination.

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/02/the-10-wackiest-museums-in-the-us.html/feed3http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/02/the-10-wackiest-museums-in-the-us.htmlCarry On with Gate8 Luggagehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/of65GjaOYbE/carry-on-with-gate8-luggage.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/02/carry-on-with-gate8-luggage.html#commentsWed, 12 Feb 2014 19:05:47 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2627Spring is near and flights are being booked for business trips, weekend getaways and more. For airlines that means plenty of hustle and bustle throughout the day from accommodating priority passengers to ensuring that there is enough space in the overhead for those that are traveling with carry on bags.

Dealing with bag issues can definitely be hectic for both the flight attendants and passengers; making the travel experience less than pleasurable. Now, there is a solution: Gate8 Luggage.

The new easy, light, way to travel, Gate 8 Luggage provides passengers with the ultimate luxury travel experience. It is a clever new range of patent protected cabin baggage that not only meets the hand baggage criteria of ALL airlines, but also offers a stylish and practical way to carry technology, accessories and crease-free clothing, that saves time, money and frustration for travelers.

Gate8 baggage design cleverly folds out to form a wardrobe for a typical trip, making it effortless for customers to pack and go. For those who love to work and travel, the Gate8 bags come with a laptop case that unzips with ease, making it convenient to catch up on work while waiting to board their flight.

Gate8 offers a plethora of products for the customers who enjoy versatility. Their new bag “Cabin Max” is designed for cabin aisle wheeling and comes with a “zip-away” mobile office that protects technology, including laptops, iPads and Tablets up to 15″ + accessory pockets for Passport, Mobile Phone and all other accessories;. You just zip it on to travel and comply with single bag carry on requirements.

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/02/carry-on-with-gate8-luggage.html/feed2http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/02/carry-on-with-gate8-luggage.htmlThe unusual and offbeat attractions of Parishttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/kUFs2mMvM68/the-unusual-and-offbeat-attractions-of-paris.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/01/the-unusual-and-offbeat-attractions-of-paris.html#commentsThu, 30 Jan 2014 16:46:02 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2617Widely regarded as one of the most captivating and enchanting capital cities in the world, Paris has a great deal to offer every kind of visitor. Whether it is a romantic city break or a weeklong holiday with friends, there is no shortage of things to do.

To see a modern version of the Arc de Triomphe, head over to La Défense on the outer edge of Paris. Here you will also see a giant thumb sculpture which is definitely worthy of a photo or two. In the Jardin des Tuileries, the park that faces the courtyard of the Louvre, you’ll find a number of crazy monster sculptures.

While making your way between these sights, try and go via Métro Arts et Métiers, as its steampunk style décor simply can’t be missed.

Secret parks and gardens

For those wanting to take a break from fast-paced city life, there are plenty of hidden parks and gardens to choose from.

Jardin Alpin features around two thousand different mountain flora species, which manage to survive thanks to a unique microclimate created by its shallow valley location and the neighbouring trees.

If you happen to visit Albert Kahn Musée in Boulogne-Billancourt, the surrounding ten-acre gardens modelled on various different countries are an idyllic setting for a lazy afternoon.

Alternative shopping

Glamorous and elegant shops in cities such as France’s capital tend to be fairly expensive, but at the weekends Paris is transformed into the world’s biggest Flea Market with bargains aplenty.

Across the city, around 2,500 merchants set up shop selling everything from antique furniture and jewellery to retro clothing and of course souvenirs. Try and haggle for the best price at markets including Vanves, Montreuil and Clignancourt.

Even though going home from Paris with pictures of the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées and the Basilica of the Sacré Cœur seems like a necessity, you’ll prove much more unusual if you showcase some of this lesser-known attractions to your friends on returning!

]]>http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/01/the-unusual-and-offbeat-attractions-of-paris.html/feed3http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/01/the-unusual-and-offbeat-attractions-of-paris.htmlThe Case for Krabi: Thailand’s Most Beautiful Provincehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/theflyingpinto/gpyN/~3/Zjg3QToKvLo/the-case-for-krabi-thailands-most-beautiful-province.html
http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2014/01/the-case-for-krabi-thailands-most-beautiful-province.html#commentsTue, 21 Jan 2014 23:21:33 +0000http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=2607Thailand has long been a favourite destination for tourists of all types. From the lush mountains in the north to the idyllic beaches that line the country’s extensive coastline; Thailand is a true paradise for all who visit.

For visitors looking to experience some of Thailand’s lesser known gems, the province of Krabi is teeming with untouched beaches, staggering cliffs and crystal clear waters that will take your breath away. Krabi holidays offer tourists a taste of Thai life in an up and coming area with something for everyone.

Whether you’re in the market for inexpensive backpacker huts, a rock climbing holiday, a family-friendly resort or a romantic honeymoon; Krabi is guaranteed to meet (and likely exceed) your expectations.
Here are some of the region’s best bets for holiday fun.

Ao Nang

Touted as Krabi’s tourist mecca, Ao Nang is convenient for those looking to indulge in sun, sand and all the amenities a resort holiday can offer. Whatever this tourist haven lacks in authenticity, it makes up for in convenience and hospitality – the people here pride themselves on being the friendliest and most laid back in the entire region. With a string of hotels and resorts lining the white sand beaches of Ao Nang, visitors are sure to have their pick of picturesque sunset views, beachfront dining and creature comforts.

The Phi Phi Islands

This small group of islands were originally home to a small fishing and farming community. In the 1980’s the islands became a backpacker’s mecca and today the region is known internationally as one of the most beautiful locations on earth. The Phi Phi Islands boast dive schools, five-star hotels, delicious restaurants and beachside bars. Aside from the stunning natural beauty of the area, the locals are some of the friendliest you will ever meet and the bohemian feel to the islands’pace and style make it a truly enchanting destination.

Koh Jum

This small island located 25km off the coast of mainland Krabi is dominated by the lush peak of Ko Pu. Towering roughly 400 metres above sea level, the rugged terrain stands in direct contrast to the flat rubber plantations and scrubland on the south part of the island. The west coast is where visitors will find a collection of bungalow resorts on the Andaman sea but there is little else to do here except ‘get away from it all’. With only one dive school and no proper ‘attractions’ to speak of, Koh Jum is one of Thailand’s few undeveloped treasures.

Five years ago, if you had told me that I would live in Los Angeles, Hawaii, Washington State, and Florida,

as well as travel to over thirty different countries, in just a few years, I would have said that this was not possible. This sounded too good to be possible.

In college, I had excelled, but upon graduating, I failed miserably at finding full time employment. If that wasn’t enough, it was as if everything else also went wrong. From the boyfriend that I loved, no longer loving me, to moving back in with my parents, to being engulfed in a deep depression- it was all an ugly mess. I hadn’t envisioned my life to be this way. I see now, that maybe I had the wrong vision.

Somehow, I found my way into applying for a job as a flight attendant, not because I had a deep love for travel, as that was still an undiscovered part of my soul, or that I had always dreamed of wearing sexy polyester, but because I needed a paycheck. Working for an airline was only to be for a couple of years, or that was what I told myself. Flying would give me time to discover what I really wanted to do. I’m still in the process of that discovery.

The job of Flight Attendant is on the list of ‘Worst Jobs.’ I wonder who made this list, because honestly, I consider working as a flight attendant to be one of the best jobs in the world. Maybe I’m not the one to ask about career choices, though. My professional resume previously had included Pilates Instructor, and Personal Trainer, and those had only been part-time gigs.

I don’t completely understand how an airline job is considered a horrible profession, when I have over twenty-days off a month, fly first class to New Zealand for holiday, and am practically forced to move to Hawaii. No, I’m not living the dream, as the life of a flight attendant is tough, the job not glamorous, and the environment draining.
But, the experiences that this line of work offers are irreplaceable. I can’t imagine who, what, or where I would be if flying never became my life.

Being a flight attendant has been that ‘true adventure.’ It started because my life went wrong, and the adventures have not stopped. As I write this, it seems like much is falling apart right now. Life is being a bit messy. Moving again, broken hearts, and broken cars. Uncertainty, and a few seemed to be mistakes have me exhaustedly numb. I have a love-hate existence with my flight attendant life sometimes.

I don’t know what to expect. I’m not sure as to where my career path, or my goals are leading, and that can be beautiful, and terrifying. One of my favorite aspects of my work is that I never know what will happen, the places that travel will take me, or what wonderful people, or not so, that I will meet.

It’s an adventure. It’s always an adventure.

I’ve been following Kara Mulder’s blog for a while now and I’m excited that she will be a regular contributor to The Flying Pinto! Kara describes herself as:

The best way to prepare for air travel is to use the serenity prayer, the one I’m partial to as a flight attendant is:

Only after I’ve arrived at my long layover destination of course! But, seriously think about the things you can’t control when you fly like weather delays, other angry or stressed out people or mechanical delays, and then let those things go.

The way to “change the things you can” is to be prepared. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport, buy water once through security and make sure you pack snacks! Some great ideas for snacks are things that are low in sugar that will keep your energy levels up. Some great ideas are fruit, veggies and granola.

Cascadian Farms sent me some great samples for my latest flight with my family. The great thing about granola is it’s easy to pack, you won’t have any issues going through security and you can chose between granola bars or make your own granola mix.

Have an upcoming trip? Cascadian Farms would like to help you avoid the “hangries” as they like to call it (hungry & angry) by giving away a mix of the following:

Harvest Berry Chewy Granola Bars

Chocolate Chip Chewy Granola Bars

Oats and Honey Crunchy Granola Bars

Berry Cobbler Cereal Granola

Oats and Honey Cereal Granola

Ancient Grains Cereal Granola

Cascadian Farm Tote Bag

A little something for everyone! Just head over to my facebook page, like it and leave a comment on my pinned post about how you avoid the hangries for a chance to win! Good luck and happy flying!